For the first time ever, I’m expanding on the tried-and-true, DC-inspired KFDC gift guide with collections of ideas curated for specific groups of giftees. This one is for the teens, who can be kind of tough to shop for since they tend to be more selective about their stuff (mine are, anyway). But these ideas, hopefully, will be helpful as they come from both my experience with two teenage kids and actual input from the teens themselves. Happy Gifting!
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Wearables
What they wear is a top priority for many teens, though they can be picky about what it is. Here are some ideas that seem to be somewhat universal faves.
Brandy Melville – Sasha would be happy with just about anything from here.
Hoodies – They all wear them, and we can attest that these are some of the softest.
BDG Sweater – Owen-approved (and I like it, too).
Cargos – Pants of the moment. (For girls, too.)
Cargo Sweats – Sasha has and loves. (For guys, too.)
Hooded Flannel – A shacket for guys.
Stitch Fix – Surprise them with stylist-selected box of clothes (ps: referral link gets you $25 credit).
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Lululemon Love
Sasha covets this brand, but the pricey pieces (for a teen) make them a special occasion buy.
Leggings & Tights – They really are some of the best.
Define Jacket – Sooo many great colors this season.
Belt Bag – A perfect carryall for teens, and LOTS of good options now.
Hottie Hots – THE teen shorts.
Half-Zips – For guys…lots for them, too!
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Good Sports
For teens who are into watching sports, tickets or gear for their favorite teams is guaranteed to be a score. And for those who are sporty, there are also a few ideas to upgrade their activities.
Nationals Merch – Jerseys and more for fans.
Caps Tix – Plus, merch to go along with them.
Washington Spirit – Show support for women’s soccer.
DC United – Gear for local futbol fans.
Wizards Tix – Jerseys and more merch, too.
Commanders Tix – Gear for local football fans.
Mystics Tix – Women’s basketball is happening now.
Messi Merch – Jerseys and more merch for fans of the GOAT (or any MLS faves).
Spikeball – The preferred lawn game for the teen set.
Bike – Holidays are a perfect time to upgrade their (two) wheels.
Ski Gear – If they’re headed downhill, make it more fun.
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Glam Up Gifts
For girls and guys who like to elevate their look with a little makeup and accessories, here are some things to help that would make great gifts.
Dyson Hair Dryer – I’ve been told by a certain teen, that this would be the ultimate gift.
Makeup Brush Set – Great rating with over 40,000 reviews
Makeup Mirror – For prime primping.
Eyelash Curler – A very important accessory, and I got some intel that this is a great one for the price.
Hoop Earrings – Small, but puffy and pretty.
Silver Chain – Jewelry for dudes.
Hair Product – Owen’s fave.
The Ordinary – Both kids like this very reasonably-priced skin care brand.
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Get Their Kicks
An important part of every outfit, a new pair of shoes are as practical as they will be appreciated by the teens who wear them.
Sambas – The soccer style shoes are super trendy now.
Nike Dunks – High top, low top, and so many colors.
Converse – Always a classic, from All Stars to platforms to low tops.
New Blance 550 – The chunky, 80’s style is back.
Ugg Ultra Minis – The must-have bootie of the season.
Birkenstock Bostons – Comfy flat clogs for all.
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Tasty Treats
For people who seem to be hungry all. the. time. you can’t go wrong with the gift of food and drinks.
Starbucks Gift Card – A top treat spot for many a t(w)een.
Chipotle Gift Card – The gift of giant burritos.
Pretzel Bakery Gift Card – Locations in Capitol Hill & Bethesda.
Foxtrot – Gift cards and gift boxes of treats.
Tatte – Tasty treats, coffee drinks, and yummy sammies.
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Fit for a Teen
The gym is a new hangout spot for many teens I know, which is not a bad thing at all (imo), so get them gear to supplement that. Or the gym membership, if they don’t yet have one.
Gym Membership – We love OneLife, but Gold’s, PlanetFitness, and YMCA welcome teens, too.
Weight Set – If they prefer to work out at home.
Gym Wear – The brand Owen likes (also see Lululemon above).
Punching Bag and Boxing Gloves – For Rocky wannabes.
Yoga Mat – For those who namaste.
Water Bottle – To stay hydrated — and trendy.
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That’s Entertainment
If they love live music, good theatre, or watching movies, surprise them with tickets to see it. (Or bring an entertainer to them!)
Movies – A gift card to use for many theaters.
Concert Tix – Specific suggestions: Olivia Rodrigo, Bad Bunny, Grouplove, Keane, Taylor Swift.
Theatre Tix – Some recs: The Book of Mormon, tick, tick…BOOM, Little Shop of Horrors, Romeo and Juliet.
Cameo – A video just for them, from their favorite (B list) star.
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It’s Electr(on)ic
Just about all of these would make their (holi)day…
Chromebook – Basic, but just about all they need.
Apple Watch – If you’re up for splurging, a great way to do it.
Wireless headphones – You can’t beat(s) these. (Or Echo Buds as a stocking stuffer.)
Bluetooth Beanie – Keep heads warm and music playing.
Portable Charger – Perfect stocking stuffer.
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Creative Solutions
For teens who like to express themselves through their art or maybe just want to try a new creative pursuit.
Drawing Set – For the sketch artist.
Guitar – For music makers.
Journal – For writers.
Camera – For pics beyond phone selfies.
Crochet Kit – For amigurumi-ers.
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Practical Presents
If they need the stuff anyway, why not wrap it up and put a bow on it to make it festive!
Winter jacket – Lots of color options… for girls, too.
Socks – Nice and plush… for guys, too.
Luggage – Carry-on rolling duffel is perfect (my kids have an older version).
AirTags – For when they misplace _______ (insert any item).
Blemish Kit – Not a bad idea to have on hand for teenage skin.
This Book – Does it get anymore practical?
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Just for fun
Some random ideas that are amusing and sweet and will hopefully bring a smile to your teens’ faces.
Mini Ms. Pacman – Give gamers a little old school fun.
Pet Pillow – The cutest…we have and love ours, and so does Teddy the Aussiedude.
Pet Hoodie – Another adorable pet-inspired present.
Taylor Swift and the Clothes She Wears – A “coffee table” book for teen Swifties.
A History of Basketball in 15 Sneakers – For hoops (and sneaks) fans
Personalized Mug – So they don’t take your favorite. 😉
Frisbee – Every teen person should own one (imo).
What’s on your teens’ wish lists this year? Let us know in the comments! Also, be sure to check out the DC-inspired gift guide for experiences and more local things that teens will dig.
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